U.S. patent application number 14/677865 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-30 for shared entrance seating arrangement.
The applicant listed for this patent is C&D ZODIAC, INC.. Invention is credited to Scott Savian.
Application Number | 20150210393 14/677865 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53678328 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150210393 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Savian; Scott |
July 30, 2015 |
SHARED ENTRANCE SEATING ARRANGEMENT
Abstract
An aircraft lounge assembly that includes an enclosure having a
rear wall, first and second side walls and a forward wall that
cooperate to define a seating area. The lounge assembly also
includes first and second seats positioned in the seating area, and
a first dividing wall positioned between the first and second
seats. The first dividing wall divides the seating area into a
first seat section and a second seat section. The front wall
includes a shared entrance space defined therein. A first seat path
is defined between the shared entrance space and the first seat
section and a second seat path is defined between the shared
entrance space and the second seat section.
Inventors: |
Savian; Scott; (Huntington
Beach, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
C&D ZODIAC, INC. |
Huntington Beach |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53678328 |
Appl. No.: |
14/677865 |
Filed: |
April 2, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14028424 |
Sep 16, 2013 |
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14677865 |
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13439787 |
Apr 4, 2012 |
8534604 |
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14028424 |
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61516586 |
Apr 4, 2011 |
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61616362 |
Mar 27, 2012 |
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61975634 |
Apr 4, 2014 |
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62024817 |
Jul 15, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
244/118.6 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B64D 11/0015 20130101;
B64D 11/0636 20141201; Y10T 29/49826 20150115; B64D 11/0638
20141201; B64D 11/0606 20141201; B64D 11/0601 20141201; B64D
11/0604 20141201; B64D 11/003 20130101; B64D 11/0605 20141201; B64D
11/0641 20141201 |
International
Class: |
B64D 11/06 20060101
B64D011/06; B64D 11/00 20060101 B64D011/00 |
Claims
1. An aircraft lounge assembly comprising: an enclosure that
includes a rear wall, first and second side walls and a forward
wall that cooperate to define a seating area, first and second
seats positioned in the seating area, and a first dividing wall
positioned between the first and second seats, wherein the first
dividing wall divides the seating area into a first seat section
and a second seat section, wherein the front wall includes a shared
entrance space defined therein, wherein a first seat path is
defined between the shared entrance space and the first seat
section and a second seat path is defined between the shared
entrance space and the second seat section.
2. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 1 wherein the first
dividing wall includes a privacy divider that is movable up and
down between first and second positions.
3. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 1 further comprising an
overhead storage bin assembly that includes at least a first post
configured to be secured to a floor of the aircraft, wherein the
first post is positioned generally between the first and second
seats, and an overhead bin housing supported by the first post.
4. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 3 wherein the overhead bin
housing includes at least first and second overhead storage bins
that are positioned generally above the first and second seats,
respectively.
5. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 1 further comprising a
tower positioned at an end of the first dividing wall, wherein the
tower includes first and second pivotable monitors connected
thereto, wherein the first monitor is pivotable between a closed
position and an open position where it is positioned in the first
seat section, wherein the second monitor is pivotable between a
closed position and an open position where it is positioned in the
second seat section.
6. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 1 further comprising a
first support positioned in the first seat section adjacent the
front wall and pivotable between a first position and a second
position, and a second support positioned in the first seat section
adjacent the front wall and pivotable between a first position and
a second position.
7. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 6 wherein the front wall
includes a first ledge on which the first support is positioned
when it is in the second position, and a second ledge on which the
second support is positioned when it is in the second position.
8. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 1 further comprising third
and fourth seats positioned in the seating area, a second dividing
wall positioned between the second and third seats and a third
dividing wall positioned between the third and fourth seats,
wherein the third dividing wall divides the seating area into a
third seat section and a fourth seat section, wherein the front
wall includes a second shared entrance space defined therein,
wherein a third seat path is defined between the second shared
entrance space and the third seat section and a fourth seat path is
defined between the second shared entrance space and the fourth
seat section.
9. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 8 wherein the first
dividing wall includes a first privacy divider that is movable up
and down between first and second positions, the second dividing
wall includes a second privacy divider that is movable up and down
between first and second positions, and the third dividing wall
includes a third privacy divider that is movable up and down
between first and second positions.
10. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 8 further comprising an
overhead storage bin assembly that includes at least first and
second posts each configured to be secured to a floor of the
aircraft, wherein the first post is positioned generally between
the first and second seats, wherein the second post is positioned
generally between the third and fourth seats, and an overhead bin
housing supported by the first and second posts.
11. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 10 wherein the overhead
bin housing includes at least first, second, third and fourth
overhead storage bins that are positioned generally above the
first, second, third and fourth seats, respectively.
12. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 8 wherein the second
dividing wall extends between the rear wall and the front wall.
13. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 12 wherein the first and
third dividing walls do not extend to the front wall.
14. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 1 further comprising a
third seat positioned in the seating area, a second dividing wall
positioned between the second and third seats, wherein the second
dividing wall divides the seating area into a third seat section,
wherein the enclosure includes a third seat section entrance,
wherein a third seat path is defined between the third seat section
entrance and the third seat.
15. The aircraft lounge assembly of claim 4 wherein when the lounge
assembly is positioned in the interior of an aircraft, the first
and second storage bins face forward.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/028,424, filed Sep. 16, 2013, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/439,787, filed
Apr. 4, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,534,604, which claims the benefit
of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/516,586, filed Apr. 4, 2011,
and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/616,362, filed Mar. 27,
2012, which are all herein incorporated by reference in their
entireties. This application also claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application No. 61/975,634, filed Apr. 4, 2014, which
is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to passenger seating and storage in
the interior of passenger aircraft. In particular, the invention
relates to a shared entrance seating arrangement.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Commercial aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737
are typically constructed from modular components, the size, weight
and construction of which are dictated by many considerations,
including fuselage dimensions, aesthetic and safety considerations.
Many of these requirements are imposed by law or regulation.
Aircraft components, such as overhead stowage compartments, seats,
lavatories, galleys, lighting systems, etc. are all required to
function within strictly confined spaces.
[0004] Manufacturers of aircraft are constantly refining interior
aircraft designs to achieve more comfort and utility for passengers
and crew within carrier-imposed restraints on cost, weight,
maintenance down-time, and safety. Commercial passenger aircraft
generally include overhead luggage storage bins mounted from the
ceiling of the aircraft over the passenger seats. These bins are
designed to accommodate the size, shape, and weight of passenger
carry-on luggage.
SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0005] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention,
there is provided an aircraft lounge assembly that includes an
enclosure having a rear wall, first and second side walls and a
forward wall that cooperate to define a seating area. The lounge
assembly also includes first and second seats positioned in the
seating area, and a first dividing wall positioned between the
first and second seats. The first dividing wall divides the seating
area into a first seat section and a second seat section. The front
wall includes a shared entrance space defined therein. A first seat
path is defined between the shared entrance space and the first
seat section and a second seat path is defined between the shared
entrance space and the second seat section. In a preferred
embodiment, the first dividing wall includes a privacy divider that
is movable up and down between first and second positions.
Preferably, the lounge assembly includes an overhead storage bin
assembly that includes at least a first post configured to be
secured to a floor of the aircraft and is positioned generally
between the first and second seats, and an overhead bin housing
supported by the first post. In a preferred embodiment, the
overhead bin housing includes at least first and second overhead
storage bins that are positioned generally above the first and
second seats, respectively.
[0006] In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly includes a
tower positioned at an end of the first dividing wall that includes
first and second pivotable monitors connected thereto. The first
monitor is pivotable between a closed position and an open position
where it is positioned in the first seat section, and the second
monitor is pivotable between a closed position and an open position
where it is positioned in the second seat section. Preferably, the
lounge assembly includes a first support positioned in the first
seat section adjacent the front wall and pivotable between a first
position and a second position, and a second support positioned in
the first seat section adjacent the front wall and pivotable
between a first position and a second position. Preferably, the
front wall includes a first ledge on which the first support is
positioned when it is in the second position, and a second ledge on
which the second support is positioned when it is in the second
position.
[0007] In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly includes
third and fourth seats positioned in the seating area, and a second
dividing wall positioned between the second and third seats and a
third dividing wall positioned between the third and fourth seats.
The third dividing wall divides the seating area into a third seat
section and a fourth seat section, and the front wall includes a
second shared entrance space defined therein. A third seat path is
defined between the second shared entrance space and the third seat
section and a fourth seat path is defined between the second shared
entrance space and the fourth seat section. Preferably, the first
dividing wall includes a first privacy divider that is movable up
and down between first and second positions, the second dividing
wall includes a second privacy divider that is movable up and down
between first and second positions, and the third dividing wall
includes a third privacy divider that is movable up and down
between first and second positions. In a preferred embodiment, the
lounge assembly includes an overhead storage bin assembly that
includes at least first and second posts each configured to be
secured to a floor of the aircraft. The first post is positioned
generally between the first and second seats and the second post is
positioned generally between the third and fourth seats. An
overhead bin housing is supported by the first and second posts.
Preferably, the overhead bin housing includes at least first,
second, third and fourth overhead storage bins that are positioned
generally above the first, second, third and fourth seats,
respectively.
[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the second dividing wall extends
between the rear wall and the front wall, and the first and third
dividing walls do not extend to the front wall.
[0009] Generally, the invention is laterally positioned personal
overhead storage space (such that it opens toward the front or rear
of the aircraft) that is ultimately supported by the floor of an
aircraft. Accordingly, in a broadest sense, an embodiment can
include a single post, secured to the floor of the aircraft that
positions an overhead storage bin above a passenger seat. In
another embodiment, the overhead storage bin may be positioned over
the passenger seat by the seat shell. The structure that supports
the overhead bin may be one or posts, one or more seat shells,
walls, monuments, etc.
[0010] One of the purposes of the invention is to maximize the
number of seats on an aircraft, particularly in a business or first
class compartment (however, the invention can also be utilized in
economy class), and provide for convenient and easily accessible
storage for passengers. The configuration of seats, seat shell
design, overhead bin design and configuration each contribute to
achieving this purpose while simultaneously providing for passenger
convenience, comfort and safety.
[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the overhead storage bins make
more efficient use of space in the aircraft interior (preferably
eliminating closets that require dedicated floor space). In a
preferred embodiment, the overhead storage bins are accessible to
each passenger without having to invade another passenger's space.
As shown in the drawings, the overhead storage bins are placed over
the passenger to create a more comfortable, enclosed space. It will
be appreciated that the configuration of bin numbers, location and
size are flexible and not a limitation on the present invention.
For the designers of aircraft, the present invention allows the bin
to move with the seat, thereby freeing up the ability to arrange
the seats as desired; and the passenger service unit can be placed
generally above the passenger and/or in the column that supports
the overhead bin as more fully described below.
[0012] Overhead storage bin assemblies are well known in the art.
For example, see U.S. Pat. No. 4,637,642 issued on Jan. 20, 1987,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,567,028 issued on Oct. 22, 1996, and U.S. Patent
Publication No. 2011/0253837, published on Oct. 20, 2011, the
entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Seat
shells are also known in the art. For example, see U.S. Pat. No.
6,170,786 issued on Jan. 9, 2001, U.S. Pat. No. 7,419,214 issued on
Sep. 2, 2008, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0146004,
published on Jun. 11, 2009, the entireties of which are hereby
incorporated by reference.
[0013] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention,
there is provided an aircraft that includes at least a fuselage
having an inner side wall and a floor, at least a first seat having
an upper portion, at least a first laterally extending overhead
storage bin positioned generally above the upper portion of the
first seat, and support structure secured to the floor and
supporting the first overhead storage bin. The first seat is
secured to the floor and the first overhead storage bin has an open
and a closed configuration (see FIG. 2). The first overhead storage
bin opens toward the front or the rear of the aircraft. In a
preferred embodiment, the aircraft also includes a second seat with
an upper portion and that is secured to the floor and is adjacent
the first seat. The aircraft also includes a second laterally
extending overhead storage bin positioned generally above the upper
portion of the second seat and adjacent the first overhead storage
bin, and support structure secured to the floor and supporting the
second overhead storage bin. The second overhead storage bin has an
open and a closed configuration and it opens toward the front or
the rear of the aircraft. In a preferred embodiment, the first and
second overhead storage bins are not secured to the inner side wall
of the aircraft.
[0014] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a lounge assembly configured to be positioned in
the interior of an aircraft. The lounge assembly includes a first
seat shell configured to at least partially surround a passenger
seat, and an overhead storage bin assembly. The overhead storage
bin assembly includes first and second posts configured to be
secured to a floor of the aircraft, and an overhead bin housing
supported by the first and second posts. The overhead bin housing
includes at least a first overhead storage bin that is positioned
generally above the first seat shell. In a preferred embodiment,
the overhead bin housing includes a second overhead storage bin
positioned on one side of the first overhead storage bin and a
third overhead storage bin positioned on the opposite side of the
first overhead storage bin. When the lounge assembly is positioned
in the interior of an aircraft, the first, second and third storage
bins face forward. Preferably, the lounge assembly includes a
second seat shell positioned on one side of the first seat shell
and a third seat shell positioned on the opposite side of the seat
shell bin. The second overhead storage bin is positioned generally
above the second seat shell and the third overhead storage bin is
positioned generally above the third seat shell.
[0015] In an embodiment, the overhead bin housing includes fourth,
fifth and sixth overhead storage bin assemblies, such that when the
lounge assembly is positioned in the interior of an aircraft, the
fourth, fifth and sixth storage bins face aft. And, the lounge
assembly includes fourth, fifth and sixth seat shells. The fourth
overhead storage bin is positioned generally above the fourth seat
shell, the fifth overhead storage bin is positioned generally above
the fifth seat shell, and the sixth overhead storage bin is
positioned generally above the sixth seat shell.
[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly includes
first and second passenger service units. The first passenger
service unit is positioned between the first and second overhead
storage bins and the second passenger service unit is positioned
between the first and third overhead storage bins. Preferably, the
passenger service units include at least one gasper, and a
passenger reading light is mounted on at least one of the first and
second posts.
[0017] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
there is provided an overhead storage bin assembly configured to be
positioned in the interior of an aircraft that includes first and
second posts configured to be secured to a floor of the aircraft,
and an overhead bin housing supported by the first and second
posts. The overhead bin housing includes at least a first overhead
storage bin. When the overhead storage bin assembly is positioned
in the interior of an aircraft, the first overhead storage bin is
positioned generally above a passenger seat.
[0018] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a method of positioning overhead
storage bins within an aircraft interior. The method includes
providing a first group of seats and a first group of overhead
storage bins, positioning the first group of seats within the
aircraft interior such that each of the first group of seats face
forwardly, and positioning the first group of overhead storage bins
within the aircraft such that each of the first group of overhead
storage bins is positioned above one of the first group of seats.
The first group of overhead storage bins each face forwardly. In a
preferred embodiment, the aircraft interior has a floor and an
interior side wall, the first group of seats are each secured to
the floor, and the first group of overhead storage bins are
supported above the first group of seats by support structure and
are not secured to the interior side wall.
[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes
providing a second group of seats and a second group of overhead
storage bins, positioning the second group of seats within the
aircraft interior such that each of the second group of seats face
aft, and positioning the second group of overhead storage bins
within the aircraft such that each of the second group of overhead
storage bins is positioned above one of the second group of seats.
The second group of overhead storage bins each face aft.
Preferably, the aircraft interior has a floor and an interior side
wall, the first group of seats and the second group of seats are
each secured to the floor, the first group of overhead storage bins
are supported above the first group of seats by support structure
and are not secured to the interior side wall and the second group
of overhead storage bins are supported above the second group of
seats by support structure and are not secured to the interior side
wall.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft
first class cabin showing a series of lounge assemblies in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a overhead bin assembly in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the overhead
bin assembly of FIG. 2, with one of the overhead storage bins
removed;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of one of the lounge
assemblies of FIG. 1 with a portion of the seat shells shown in
cross section;
[0024] FIG. 5 is an end elevational cross section of a portion of
the overhead bin assembly of FIG. 2 taken along line 5-5 of FIG.
4;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a top plan cross section of a portion of the
overhead bin assembly of FIG. 2 taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 4;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a bottom elevational view of the overhead bin
assembly of FIG. 2, with the posts in cross-section;
[0027] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a portion of the interior of an
aircraft showing a plurality of lounge assemblies in schematic;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a portion of the interior of an
aircraft taken along the box labeled 9 in FIG. 8; and
[0029] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one of the lounge
assemblies of FIG. 1.
[0030] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a lounge assembly in
accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0031] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of aft and forward facing lounge
assemblies of FIG. 11 with the overhead storage bins omitted;
[0032] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of two adjacent seats in the
lounge assembly of FIG. 11 with the divider lowered to show the
companion travel experience;
[0033] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a portion of a seating area
in the lounge assembly of FIG. 11;
[0034] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another portion of a
seating area in the lounge assembly of FIG. 11; and
[0035] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of two lounge assemblies with the
overhead storage bins omitted in accordance with another embodiment
of the present invention.
[0036] Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several
views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] The following description and drawings are illustrative and
are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are
described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure.
However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details
are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description.
References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure can
be, but not necessarily are references to the same embodiment; and,
such references mean at least one of the embodiments.
[0038] Reference in this specification to "one embodiment" or "an
embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least one embodiment of the-disclosure. The
appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in
the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same
embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually
exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are
described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by
others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be
requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments.
[0039] The terms used in this specification generally have their
ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure,
and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms
that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed below, or
elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to
the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. For
convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example using
italics and/or quotation marks: The use of highlighting has no
influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning
of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is
highlighted.
[0040] It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in
more than one way. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms
may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein. No
special significance is to be placed upon whether or not a term is
elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are
provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the
use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this
specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is
illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope
and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise,
the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this
specification.
[0041] Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure,
examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related
results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are
given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the
examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit
the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all
technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as
commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which
this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present
document, including definitions, will control.
[0042] It will be appreciated that terms such as "front," "back,"
"top," "bottom," "side," "short," "long," "up," "down," "aft,"
"forward," "rear," "end" and "below" used herein are merely for
ease of description and refer to the orientation of the components
as shown in the figures. It should be understood that any
orientation of the components described herein is within the scope
of the present invention.
[0043] Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for
purposes of illustrating the present invention and not for purposes
of limiting the same, FIGS. 1-10 show a first embodiment of a
lounge assembly 10 that includes a floor mounted overhead bin
assembly 12 and a plurality of seat shells 24. FIG. 1 shows a
series of lounge assemblies 10 in the first class cabin of an
aircraft. The two forward lounge assemblies 10 include a forward
facing suite 14 and an aft facing suite 16, and the two aft lounge
assemblies 10a include only a forward facing suite 14. For
simplicity, most of the description herein focuses on the lounge
assembly 10 with both forward and aft facing suites 14 and 16,
which includes six seats 18 and six overhead storage bins 20.
However, it will be understood that the lounge assembly 10a with
only a forward facing suite 14 is essentially half of lounge
assembly 10 and includes three seats 18 and three overhead storage
bins 20, and typically backs up to a wall. However, this is not a
limitation on the present invention. In another embodiment, the
aircraft may include a plurality of lounge assemblies 10a with only
a forward facing suite 14.
[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the forward facing suite 14 and
the aft facing suite 16 each include three seats 18, for a total of
six seats 18 and six overhead storage bins 20, thereby providing
each passenger with their own overhead storage bin 20. In
particular, the invention is contemplated for use with seating and
overhead storage bins on passenger aircraft. However, this is not a
limitation on the present invention and the lounge assembly 10 can
be used in other vehicles, such as a bus, automobile, train or the
like.
[0045] As is shown in FIG. 2, the overhead storage bin assembly 12
includes posts 22 that support the overhead storage bins 20 and
associated components (described below). In a preferred embodiment,
the posts 22 include attachment feet 23 that are secured to the
existing seat track in an aircraft. However, this is not a
limitation and the posts 22, and or attachment feet 23 can be
mounted to the aircraft at a point other than the seat track.
[0046] In a preferred embodiment, each seat 18 is disposed within a
seat shell 24. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, the forward facing suite
14 and the aft facing suite 16 each include three seat shells 24
for at least partially surrounding each seat 18. In a preferred
embodiment, the posts 22 are secured to the seat shells 24 using
mechanical fasteners, such as screws, bolts or the like. In another
embodiment, the posts 22 can be secured to the seat shells 24 using
rivets, adhesive or any other fastening means known in the art. In
another embodiment, the seat shells 24 are not secured to the posts
22. In another embodiment, the posts 22 can be omitted and the seat
shells 24 can include high enough walls that the overhead storage
bins 20 are secured to and supported by the seat shell(s) 24 (which
are secured to the floor). It will be understood that forward
facing means that within an aircraft, the overhead storage bins 20
open toward the front of the aircraft and passengers seated in the
seats 18 within a seat shell 24 face the front of the aircraft. It
will be understood that aft facing means that within an aircraft,
the overhead storage bins 20 open toward the rear of the aircraft
and passengers seated in the seats 18 within a seat shell 24 face
the rear of the aircraft. In other words, the overhead storage bins
20 are positioned laterally across the fuselage of the aircraft, as
is shown in FIG. 1.
[0047] FIGS. 8 and 9 show plan views of the interior layout of an
aircraft utilizing a plurality of lounge assemblies 10 of the
present invention. As shown, the arrangement of the lounge
assemblies 10 and 10a and the separation between them provides a
single longitudinal main aisle 26 and perpendicular cross aisles
28. The cross aisles 28 provide access for passengers seated in
either the aft facing suite 16 or forward facing suite 14 adjacent
to the cross aisle 28. Therefore, when passengers enter the cabin,
they step into their assigned seat shell before placing their
luggage 30 in their personal overhead storage bin 20, instead of
holding up the other boarding passengers. For example, as shown in
FIG. 7, when the passenger seated in seat 1F enters, in order to
get to his overhead storage bin 20, he must step into his seat
shell 24. This prevents him from standing in the main aisle 26 and
holding up the passengers boarding behind him.
[0048] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a single lounge assembly 10
and illustrates a number of the different features thereof. For
descriptive purposes, the five seats that are shown are labeled 1D,
1E, 1F, 2D and 2E. In a preferred embodiment, the lounge assembly
10 includes privacy dividers 32 that raise and lower to provide
privacy for adjacent passengers. As will be appreciated, each row
of three seats preferably includes two privacy dividers 32. As is
shown in FIG. 10, the privacy divider 32 between seats 1D and 1E is
up and the privacy divider 32 between seats 1E and 1F is down. In a
preferred embodiment, the privacy dividers 32 are housed in a slot
34 and can be raised and lowered by hand. In another embodiment,
the privacy dividers 32 can be automated. In another embodiment,
each seat can include a privacy divider 32. I.e., the seat adjacent
the main aisle 26 can also include a privacy divider 32.
[0049] It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the
art that any type of seat is within the present invention.
Preferably the seats include an upper portion for supporting the
passenger's back and a seat portion. In a preferred embodiment, the
seats 18 are fully reclinable seats that allow a passenger to lay
prone for sleeping, as shown in seat 1D. Preferably, the seat shell
24 includes a support 36 at the end opposite the seat 18. The
support 36 can be used for supporting the sleeping passengers feet
in seat 1D or can be used to support a sitting passenger, as shown
in seat 2D. With this feature, two passengers can sit within the
same seat shell 24 on both the seat 18 and the support 36. In a
preferred embodiment, the support 36 is foldable or pivotable such
that it can be raised and lowered or at least a part of it can be
raised or lowered or otherwise stowed so that it is out of the way
when not in use.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 10, in a preferred embodiment of the
invention, the lounge assembly 10 can also include tray tables 38,
docks 40 for electronic devices, such as portable music players,
cell phones, tablets, etc. and video/television monitors 42 that
are pivotable (see seat 2D vs. seat 2E). In a preferred embodiment,
the tray table 38 can be swiveled or pivoted forwardly (within a
horizontal plane) so that the passenger can exit the seat shell 24
when the tray table 38 is deployed and out of its stowage
compartment in the side wall 48. However, none of these features
are a limitation on the present invention and they can be omitted.
It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that
other features and amenities can be included, and such features and
amenities are within the scope of the present invention.
[0051] In a preferred embodiment, as is best shown in FIGS. 1 and
10, the seat shells 24 each include a front wall 44, rear wall 46,
two side walls 48 and an entrance 50. It should be understood that
the front and rear walls are described as front and rear herein
with respect to the passenger seated therein. It will be
appreciated that the side walls 48 between the seats can be
separate pieces that are secured together or can be a unitary
piece. As will appreciated by those of skill in the art, the seat
shells 24 can include other known features and components, such as
armrests, seat belts, audio/video controls, storage compartments,
pockets and the like.
[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 2-6, the overhead bin assembly 12
will now be described. As discussed above, lounge assembly 10
includes six seats 18 and six overhead storage bins 20 and lounge
assembly 10a includes three seats 18 and three overhead storage
bins 20. Likewise, overhead bin assembly 12 includes six overhead
storage bins and overhead bin assembly 12a includes three overhead
storage bins. For simplicity, the description herein focuses on
overhead bin assembly 12. However, it will be understood that
overhead bin assembly 12a is essentially half of overhead bin
assembly 12.
[0053] As is shown in FIG. 2, overhead bin assembly 12 includes two
posts 22 that support the overhead bins 20 and the necessary
components therefore. In a preferred embodiment, the posts 22
include struts 51 to provide further columnar support and to help
prevent the overhead bin assembly 12 from tipping over. Generally,
as is best shown in FIG. 6, overhead bin assembly 12 includes six
overhead storage bins 20 with four passenger service units 52
disposed between overhead storage bins 20. The passenger service
units 52 include gaspers 54, masks 56, a cover 57 for the masks,
and oxygen units 58. In another embodiment, the passenger service
units 52 can include passenger reading lights. However, in the
embodiment shown in the figures, the passenger reading lights 60
are mounted on the posts 22, as shown in FIG. 3. The passenger
service units 52 can also include other components or features
known in the art, such as flight attendant call buttons, etc. In a
preferred embodiment, the wiring, air ducts and other components
necessary for the operation of the passenger service unit
components and lights, run up and through the posts 22. In another
embodiment, they can extend from the inner side wall into the
outboard most end wall.
[0054] As shown in FIGS. 2-3 and 6, overhead bin assembly 12
includes an upper housing 62, lower housing 64, end walls 66,
passenger service unit covers 68, dividers 70, and a center wall 72
(this entire structure is referred to herein as the overhead bin
housing 71). It will be understood that center wall 72 can be a
single piece, as shown in FIG. 6 or two separate pieces (as shown
in FIG. 7) secured to one another or backed up to one another. In
other words, the entire overhead bin assembly 12 can be constructed
as one unit or it can be constructed as two separate overhead bin
assemblies 12a placed back to back (whether secured to one another
or not).
[0055] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, in a preferred embodiment, the
post 22 includes two extension members 74 that extend upwardly into
the interior of the overhead bin housing 71 on either side of the
center wall 72. In other words, the extension members 74 define a
space therebetween, which receives center wall 72. The extension
members 74 are secured to the center wall 72 to provide support for
the overhead bin housing 71 and overhead storage bins 20. As shown
in FIGS. 3 and 6, the passenger service unit cover 68 includes a
cut out 84 therein in which a portion of the post 22 is received.
As shown in FIG. 6, the lower housing 54 includes a number of
different pieces. However, this is not a limitation on the present
invention. The passenger service unit 52 is housed or defined by
the passenger service unit cover 68, a divider 70 on either side,
and the upper housing 62. In another embodiment, a passenger
service unit 52 can be located adjacent the end wall 66.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 6, each overhead storage bin 20 includes a
bin housing 78, side walls 80 and a latch system 82 (see FIG. 2).
In a preferred embodiment, the outside bins include clearance
members 76 that provide clearance with the posts 22 when the bins
20 are opened and closed. The clearance members 76 extend into the
interior of the outside overhead storage bins 20 and are generally
arc shaped.
[0057] FIGS. 11-15 show another embodiment of a lounge assembly 85
that includes a floor mounted overhead bin assembly 12 and a
plurality of seats 18 and surrounding seat shells 24. In this
embodiment, adjacent seats 18 can be accessed by a common or shared
entrance space 84. Lounge assembly 85 is similar to the other
lounge assemblies discussed herein. However, instead of a separate
entrance space for each seat 18, at least some of the seats include
a shared entrance space 84.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 12, in a preferred embodiment, the forward
facing suite 14 and the aft facing suite 16 each include four seats
18, for a total of eight seats 18 and eight overhead storage bins
20, thereby providing each passenger with their own overhead
storage bin 20. As is shown in FIG. 11, the overhead storage bin
assembly 12 includes posts 22 that support the overhead storage
bins 20 and associated components (passenger service units 52 and
the like). In a preferred embodiment, the posts 22 include
attachment feet 23 that are secured to the existing seat track in
an aircraft. However, this is not a limitation and the posts 22,
and or attachment feet 23 can be mounted to the aircraft at a point
other than the seat track. In a preferred embodiment, the seats 18
are disposed within a seat shell or seat shells 24.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 12, the arrangement of the lounge
assemblies 85 and the separation between them provides a single
longitudinal main aisle 26 and perpendicular cross aisles 28. The
cross aisles 28 provide access for passengers seated in either the
aft facing suite 16 or forward facing suite 14 adjacent to the
cross aisle 28. Furthermore, as discussed above, the lounge
assembly 85 is arranged so that adjacent seats are accessible by a
common entrance 84. Therefore, when passengers in adjacent seats
(e.g., 2G and 2F) enter the cabin, they step through common
entrance 84 and into their assigned seat or seat shell before
placing their luggage 30 in their personal overhead storage bin 20,
instead of holding up the other boarding passengers. The lounge
assembly 85 includes an enclosure 122 that comprises the rear wall
46, first and second side walls 48 and the forward wall 44 (which
includes a number of sections) that cooperate to define the overall
seating area. A first dividing wall 124 is positioned between the
first and second seats 18 and divides the seating area into a first
seat section 126 and a second seat section 128. The shared entrance
space 84 is defined in the front wall 44, and a first seat path P1
is defined between the shared entrance space 84 and the first seat
section 126 and a second seat path P2 is defined between the shared
entrance space 84 and the second seat section 128.
[0060] Preferably, a second dividing wall 130 is positioned between
the second and third seats and a third dividing wall 132 positioned
between the third and fourth seats. The third dividing wall 132
divides the seating area into a third seat section 134 and a fourth
seat section 136. The front wall 44 includes a second shared
entrance space 84 defined therein. A third seat path P3 is defined
between the second shared entrance space 84 and the third seat
section 134 and a fourth seat path P4 is defined between the second
shared entrance space and the fourth seat section 136.
[0061] In a preferred embodiment, towers 140 are positioned at an
end of the first and third dividing walls 124 and 132. The towers
140 each include first and second pivotable monitors 42 that are
pivotable between a closed position and an open position.
[0062] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a single forward facing
lounge assembly 85 and illustrates a number of the different
features thereof. For descriptive purposes, the four seats that are
shown are labeled 2D, 2E, 2F and 2G. In a preferred embodiment, the
lounge assembly 85 includes privacy dividers 32 positioned on the
dividing walls that raise and lower to provide privacy for adjacent
passengers. As will be appreciated, each row of four seats
preferably includes three privacy dividers 32. As is shown in FIG.
11, the privacy dividers 32 between seats 2D, 2E and 2F are up and
the privacy divider 32 between seats 2F and 2G is down. In a
preferred embodiment, the privacy dividers 32 are housed in a slot
34 and can be raised and lowered by hand. In another embodiment,
the privacy dividers 32 can be automated. In another embodiment,
each seat can include a privacy divider 32. I.e., the seat adjacent
the main aisle 26 can also include a privacy divider 32.
[0063] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lounge
assembly 10 can also include tray tables 38, docks 40 for
electronic devices, video/television monitors 42 that are pivotable
(see seat 2D vs. seat 2F). As will appreciated by those of skill in
the art, the seat shells 24 can include other known features and
components, such as armrests, seat belts, audio/video controls,
storage compartments, pillows, pockets and the like. However, none
of these features are a limitation on the present invention and
they can be omitted. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary
skill in the art that other features and amenities can be included,
and such features and amenities are within the scope of the present
invention.
[0064] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary view of two adjacent seats with
the divider 32 lowered and the "companion travel" aspect of the
present invention. With the divider lowered 32, adjacent passengers
can feel as though they are eating together (note adjacent tray
tables 38), watching TV together (note adjacent monitors 42) or
hanging out together.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 14, in a preferred embodiment, each seat
shell 24 or seat compartment includes a support 36 (e.g., footrest)
at the end opposite the seat 18. The support 36 can be used for
supporting the sleeping passengers feet or can be used to support a
sitting passenger. With this feature, two passengers can sit within
the same seat shell 24 on both the seat 18 and the support 36. In a
preferred embodiment, the support 36 is foldable or pivotable such
that it can be raised and lowered or otherwise stowed so that it is
out of the way when not in use. The support 36 preferably rests on
a ledge 88 that is part of front wall 44 of the seat shell 24. In
another embodiment, the support 36 can rest on the floor or any
object extending upwardly from the floor. Preferably, the supports
36 are wider than the seats 18 with which they are associated to
maximize the sleeping surface. As shown in FIG. 14, in a preferred
embodiment, each seating area includes storage space or pockets 90
for literature and/or emergency cards, a storage area 92 for
amenities (e.g., a make up or toiletries bag), a coat hook 94, a
cup holder 96 and shoe stowage space 98 (through opening 97) within
the support 36. Opening 97 can include a door. The seat shells 24
can also include privacy dividers 100 that extend higher in some
places than others.
[0066] FIG. 15 shows another view of a seating area and includes
other exemplary features that can be included, such as storage
pockets or compartments 102 for items such as tablets and books,
water bottle storage 104, life vest storage 106, input jack(s) 108
(e.g., USB, electrical power, headphone jacks, etc.), seat
controller 110, personal control unit, handset 112, reading light
60, headphone storage 114, tray table 38 storage, and other
accessories such as a smaller cocktail table, storage for
eyeglasses, and personal accessories, etc.
[0067] FIG. 16 shows another lounge assembly 120, similar to lounge
assembly 85, but that includes only three seats 18 and
corresponding seat areas/seat shells. Because of the odd number of
seats, one of the seats does note share an entrance with an
adjacent seat. The lounge assemblies 85 and 120 shown in FIGS.
16-17 also include television monitors 42 that are positioned
toward the end (near the passenger's feet) of the seat area (see
FIG. 17).
[0068] Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been
shown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms used
herein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes,
modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinary
skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It will be understood that generally, the invention is
laterally positioned personal overhead storage space (such that it
opens toward the front or rear of the aircraft) that is supported
by the floor of an aircraft. The structure that supports the
overhead bin may be one or posts, one or more seat shells, walls,
monuments, etc. Accordingly, in a broadest sense, an embodiment can
include a single post, secured to the floor of the aircraft that
positions an overhead storage bin above a passenger. In another
embodiment, the overhead storage bin may be positioned over the
passenger seat by the seat shell. In another embodiment, the lounge
assembly can comprise a single seat or single seat shell and seat
with two posts that extend up to and support a single overhead
storage bin. In other embodiments, the overhead bin can be
supported from the floor and also from above, to provide extra
support. The number of bins and number of posts is not a limitation
on the present invention. Furthermore, the type of aircraft or
plane is not a limitation on the present invention. The aircraft
shown in the figures is a wide body aircraft. The present invention
can also be used with a narrow body aircraft. For example, in a
narrow body aircraft, the lounge assemblies may only include two
seat shells and two overhead storage bins on each side of the
aircraft.
[0069] In an embodiment, the seat shells can include walls that
extend high enough to support the overhead bin above the seat. The
seat shell is secured to the floor of the fuselage of the aircraft.
Therefore, the overhead bin is ultimately secured to the floor of
the aircraft.
[0070] In another embodiment, the seat shells 24 can be omitted and
the overhead bin assemblies 12 can be used with standalone seats
18. Furthermore, the type of seat shell 24 is not a limitation on
the present invention. It will be understood that the bin does not
have to be a pivot bin. It can be a moving bin or other type of
articulating bin, as is known in the art.
[0071] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout
the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising,"
and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed
to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense
of "including, but not limited to." As used herein, the terms
"connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof, means any
connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or
more elements; the coupling of connection between the elements can
be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the
words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when
used in this application, shall refer to this application as a
whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where
the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description of the
Preferred Embodiments using the singular or plural number may also
include the plural or singular number respectively. The word "or"
in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the
following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the
list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the
items in the list.
[0072] The above-detailed description of embodiments of the
disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
teachings to the precise form disclosed above. While specific
embodiments of and examples for the disclosure are described above
for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are
possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in
the relevant art will recognize. Further, any specific numbers
noted herein are only examples: alternative implementations may
employ differing values, measurements or ranges.
[0073] The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be
applied to other systems, not necessarily the system described
above. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described
above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Any
measurements or dimensions described or used herein are merely
exemplary and not a limitation on the present invention. Other
measurements or dimensions are within the scope of the
invention.
[0074] Any patents and applications and other references noted
above, including any that may be listed in accompanying filing
papers, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ
the systems, functions, and concepts of the various references
described above to provide yet further embodiments of the
disclosure.
[0075] These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in
light of the above Detailed Description of the Preferred
Embodiments. While the above description describes certain
embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best mode
contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the
teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may
vary considerably in its implementation details, while still being
encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above,
particular terminology used when describing certain features or
aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the
terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any
specific characteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure
with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms
used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the
disclosures to the specific embodiments disclosed in the
specification unless the above Detailed Description of the
Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines such terms.
Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not
only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of
practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.
[0076] While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below
in certain claim forms, the inventors contemplate the various
aspects of the disclosure in any number of claim forms. For
example, while only one aspect of the disclosure is recited as a
means-plus-function claim under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112, 6, other
aspects may likewise be embodied as a means-plus-function claim, or
in other forms, such as being embodied in a computer-readable
medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.112, 6 will include the words "means for"). Accordingly, the
applicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filing
the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other
aspects of the disclosure.
* * * * *